New England has stunning scenery, picturesque coastal towns, mountains, and lakes, all within proximity to Boston. Here are some favorite weekend getaways in New England.
The Berkshires is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and white water rafting, especially during foliage season. Hike to the summit of Mt. Greylock with panoramic views of five states. Experience unusual museums and farm-to-table dining.
Burlington Vermont on the shores of Lake Champlain is a perfect destination in any season. Church Street Marketplace is a brick-paved mall that features specialty shops, outdoor cafes, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Street performers entertain in the evening.
The Maine Coast is perfect for a weekend getaway. Ogunquit is a beautiful destination only about an hour from Boston. The Marginal Way is a scenic cliff walk winding by Ogunquit’s rocky beaches to Perkins Cove, one of the coast’s most scenic locations, with excellent restaurants scattered around the harbor. In nearby York is the famous Nubble Light, the country’s most photographed lighthouse. Burlington’s festivals include First Night and Burlington Discover Jazz Festival. The Burlington Waterfront has a bike path connecting to Lake Champlain’s islands.
Martha’s Vineyard is a stunning island off the Cape cod coast that’s changed very little in the last 100 years. There aren’t any chain hotels or restaurants. Visitors come to the Vineyard for the charming, small towns, farms, beaches, and atmosphere. Bikes and mopeds are the best way to get around the island. Photograph the stunning Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs, spend a day at Katama Beach or Joseph Sylvia State Beach Edgartown is famous for its 500-acre wildlife refuge, its beaches, and lighthouses.
Newport is famous for its extravagant mansions on Rhode Island’s ocean cliffs. The estates built by 19th-century industrialists are museums, visitors may tour the elaborate “summer cottages.” A young, diverse crowd loves Newport’s al fresco dining, the bars, and the boutiques. Newport is only two hours from Boston.
New Hampshire’s White Mountains is a summer destination for hiking and canoeing. It’s also a top, winter ski destination, The Kancamagus Highway is a favorite fall foliage drive. The 34.5-mile road runs through lush forest. The Mt. Washington Cog Railway Franconia has been climbing to the summit of Mount Washington for 150 years, offering visitors spectacular views of the Presidential Range. The Franconia Ridge Loop is a favorite, day-long hike that winds through the Franconia Range.